A pharmacist has made a surprising confession online, sharing the one over-the-counter medicine she avoids buying altogether. Anum, a clinical pharmacist, posted a video on TikTok explaining that she refuses to spend money on common cough syrups.“The one medication I would never buy are over-the-counter cough syrups,” Anum said, adding that she expects some criticism for her stance. She explained that, according to studies, most cough remedies perform no better than a placebo. Her message was directed at anyone dealing with a sore throat or nagging cough.So what does this mean for people trying to treat their cough at home?Is the Effect of Cough Medicine Mostly Placebo?Anum explained that cough syrups don’t significantly reduce symptoms compared to those who take nothing or a placebo. She acknowledged that everyone’s experience may differ, but if she ever caught a mild viral cough, she would skip drugstore syrups and instead focus on natural care.“I rely on hydration, rest, and warm water mixed with lemon and honey for soothing relief,” she said, adding that anyone with a cough lasting more than three weeks should see a doctor or pharmacist for proper evaluation.Her opinion reflects findings from research as well. A review published in Respiratory Physiology and Neurobiology noted that the apparent effectiveness of cough syrups is often due to the placebo effect rather than their active ingredients. The paper, led by Ron Eccles, head of the Common Cold Centre at Cardiff University, explained that sweet syrups used in most over-the-counter cough medicines may themselves help trigger a soothing response.Of the 60 cough medicines sold in the UK, all but two contain some form of sweetener such as sucrose, honey, glucose, or treacle. According to the review, the sweet or bitter taste of these syrups can stimulate saliva and mucus production. Ingredients like sugar, honey, lemon, and even mild spices such as capsicum may trigger reflex salivation and mucus secretion, helping relieve throat irritation.Are Cough Syrups Safe to Use?While experts agree that cough medicine is not suitable for young children, most formulations are safe for older children and adults when used properly. The risk of serious side effects is low. However, people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, should always consult a doctor before taking any cough or cold medicine.Experts also warn against relying on these syrups for too long. If a cough persists for more than a week or is accompanied by a fever or rash, it’s important to see a doctor. Overuse is another concern, as many cough and cold remedies contain overlapping ingredients. Taking multiple products together or doubling up on doses can lead to accidental overdosing. “If one dose doesn’t help, taking more won’t fix the problem,” says pulmonologist Dr. Edelman. “It only increases the risk of side effects.”
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